Tag: Energy Efficiency

April 14, 2025
Xiaomi Unveils New Air Conditioner with Upward Airflow and Radar
Key Takeaways
1. Innovative Upward Airflow: The Mijia Air Conditioner Pro directs air upward for a more comfortable and ambient cooling experience, avoiding direct blasts of cold air.
2. Human-Sensing Technology: Equipped with dual mmWave radars, the unit detects human presence and adjusts airflow direction for comfort, a feature typically found in high-end AC systems.
3. Energy Efficiency: The air conditioner switches to low-power mode when no occupants are detected, potentially saving around 361 kWh annually, equating to about 216 yuan (~$30) on electricity bills.
4. Smart Home Compatibility: It integrates with HyperOS Connect, Mi Home, and Xiao Ai voice assistant, allowing for personalized modes and over-the-air updates.
5. Compact and Quiet Design: Weighing only 13kg and requiring minimal installation space, it operates quietly at just 18dB(A) in silent mode, making it ideal for various living environments.
Last year, Xiaomi introduced an innovative concept in home cooling: an air conditioner that directs air upward rather than straight at you. This design offers a more comfortable and less intrusive airflow that gently fills the space, similar to ambient cooling but with a smarter approach. Now, Xiaomi has launched an enhanced model: the Mijia Air Conditioner Pro, featuring human-sensing upward airflow, priced at 3,999 yuan (~$550).
Key Features of the Mijia Air Conditioner Pro
This new unit, with a power of 1.5 horsepower, continues the “wall-hugging” airflow idea but incorporates a significant improvement: dual mmWave radars that monitor human presence in real-time. The system can identify your location within a room and can either direct cooling towards you for immediate comfort or redirect it to avoid an uncomfortable blast of cold air. This advanced technology is usually found in high-end central AC systems, now available in a consumer-friendly wall unit.
Energy Efficiency and Smart Control
The integration of radar technology also contributes to energy efficiency. When the system detects no occupants, it switches to a low-power mode. When someone returns, it quietly increases its output. According to Xiaomi, this intelligent feature—driven by the Lingyun AI engine and supported by cloud-based scene recognition—can save around 361 kWh each year, which is about 216 yuan (~$30) on your electricity bill.
The Mijia Pro utilizes a dual-cylinder inverter compressor with a double-row condenser and evaporator, ensuring effective heating and cooling even in extreme weather conditions, from -35°C in winter to a sizzling 65°C in summer. It boasts an APF rating of 5.65, making it eligible for China’s top energy efficiency category, “Super Level 1.”
Smart Home Compatibility and Design
Xiaomi hasn’t overlooked smart home features either. This unit is compatible with HyperOS Connect and works seamlessly with the Mi Home and Xiao Ai voice assistant. Additionally, it receives over-the-air updates for new capabilities in the future. Users can personalize their favorite modes or select preset scenes based on their activities or the time of day.
Furthermore, it includes a self-cleaning cycle at 56°C for both indoor and outdoor units, along with an antibacterial filter that eliminates over 99% of common germs. It delivers impressive airflow at 830m³/h while maintaining a quiet operation level of just 18dB(A) in silent mode—quieter than most whispers.
On the design front, it is sleek and compact. The indoor unit weighs only 13kg and requires just 35cm of vertical space and 2cm of top clearance, offering installers greater flexibility compared to traditional bulkier wall units.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Smart Home Integration, Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Pro
April 9, 2025
Xiaomi Launches AI-Controlled Central AC with High Efficiency & Purification
Key Takeaways
1. Stylish Design: The Mijia Central Air Conditioner Pro has a slim profile of 198mm, designed to fit seamlessly into ceilings of medium-sized homes (40–50 square meters).
2. High Energy Efficiency: With an energy efficiency rating of APF 4.35, the unit can save up to 2,389 kWh annually, resulting in lower electricity costs of about 1,195 yuan ($164).
3. Smart Home Compatibility: It integrates with Xiaomi’s smart home ecosystem, utilizing the Lingyun Smart Control Engine to adjust settings based on user habits and environmental conditions.
4. Advanced Air Management: The AC features dual mmWave radar sensors for precise airflow direction and offers various fan speeds and airflow modes for personalized comfort.
5. Comprehensive Air Quality Control: The system supports Ion Purification and includes self-cleaning capabilities, along with connectivity to other Xiaomi smart devices for improved indoor air management.
Xiaomi has taken a significant leap into the realm of smart home technology with its new product — the Mijia Central Air Conditioner Pro (Ducted 4 HP Ultra-Level 1 Energy Efficiency). This unit is currently available for pre-order at a price of 7,999 yuan (approximately $1,100) on Xiaomi Youpin. This air conditioning system is clearly designed for those seeking a stylish and modern solution without sacrificing performance or intelligence.
Key Features of the Mijia Central Air Conditioner Pro
Tailored for medium-sized residences or apartments (around 40–50 square meters), this ducted air conditioning system is crafted to seamlessly fit within your ceiling with a slim profile of just 198mm. It integrates well with various interior layouts, ensuring that there is no bulky equipment disrupting your home’s aesthetic.
Efficiency and Performance
Beyond its appealing design, the Mijia AC Pro boasts impressive energy efficiency. It holds the highest energy efficiency rating (APF 4.35), which Xiaomi claims could help save up to 2,389 kWh annually, equating to about 1,195 yuan ($164) in lower electricity costs. The unit features a dual-cylinder compressor for enhanced durability, paired with a dual-row condenser and a three-row evaporator for quicker and more effective heating and cooling. The heat exchange system utilizes 7mm copper tubes and aluminum fins, typical of higher-end models.
Smart Home Integration
This air conditioner is fully compatible with Xiaomi’s smart home setup. Utilizing the proprietary Lingyun Smart Control Engine, the AC adjusts to your daily routines in real-time, modifying settings based on your whereabouts, habits, and even the weather conditions. It can cool a room in just 30 seconds and heat it in 60 seconds, predicting your needs even before you interact with the app.
The unit also employs dual mmWave radar sensors to detect your location within a 7-meter range, directing airflow accordingly. Users can select from seven fan speeds and three airflow modes: direct, avoid, or soft breeze, ensuring comfort without the need for constant adjustments.
Comprehensive Indoor Air Management
As part of the Xiaomi ecosystem, it is compatible with HyperOS Connect and can be controlled via the Mi Home app. Users can operate it remotely, issue voice commands through XiaoAI, and receive over-the-air updates that introduce new features over time. Xiaomi presents it as an integral component of a more holistic indoor air management system, regulating temperature, humidity, oxygen levels, cleanliness, airflow, and air quality. When paired with the optional smart air panel, it can connect to purifiers, humidifiers, and other devices.
To ensure cleaner air, the system supports Ion Purification (requiring the optional panel) that targets PM2.5 particles, germs, and viruses. Additionally, it includes a self-cleaning capability that heats up to 56°C to sanitize both the indoor and outdoor components. There’s also a float switch that automatically powers down the unit and sends alerts if a leak is detected.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Smart Home Technology, Xiaomi Mijia Central Air Conditioner Pro
March 30, 2025
Xiaomi Launches Smart Standing Fan with App Control and Energy Efficiency
Key Takeaways
1. Dual Functionality: The fan can be used as both a tabletop and a floor fan, offering versatility in placement.
2. Performance: It delivers powerful airflow of up to 1440m³/h, projecting air up to 13 meters and refreshing a room in two minutes.
3. Smart Features: The fan includes 100 adjustable speed levels, is controllable via the Xiaomi Home app, and can automate settings based on temperature.
4. Energy Efficiency: It consumes only 1.3kWh for the entire summer and operates quietly at 27.9dB(A).
5. User-Friendly Design: Weighing 5.7 lbs, it is easy to move, features a child lock for safety, and has a removable grille for effortless cleaning.
Xiaomi has revealed its latest Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan, which functions as both a tabletop and a floor fan. This new model features smart technology, powerful airflow, and is designed to be energy efficient.
Performance and Design
The fan can deliver airflow reaching up to 1440m³/h and can project air up to 13 meters. According to Xiaomi, it can refresh the air in a room in as little as two minutes. With its 3D oscillation capability, moving 120° side to side and 100° vertically, it can cover an area of 538 square feet. Weighing merely 5.7 lbs, this fan’s straightforward design facilitates easy relocation between a table or floor position.
Equipped with a DC inverter motor, this fan boasts 100 adjustable speed levels that can be accessed through the Xiaomi Home app. Users can create schedules or automate settings, such as turning the fan on when the temperature exceeds 27°C and shutting it off when it falls below 18°C. It is also compatible with other Xiaomi smart products, including thermostats, air conditioners, and humidifiers, enhancing indoor comfort. The energy usage is minimal, only consuming 1.3kWh for the entire summer, and operates at a whisper-quiet level of 27.9dB(A). For added safety, the device features a child lock and a grille that can be removed for simple cleaning without any tools. When used alongside other devices, it can assist in managing both humidity and airflow.
Availability
While the specific pricing is still unknown, the Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan is anticipated to be available worldwide before summer fully arrives.
Source:
Link
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan, Xiaomi
January 29, 2025
Linux Update Could Reduce Server Energy Use by 30%
The shift first highlighted in a study back in December 2023 is quite remarkable. By altering just 30 lines of code, data throughput can see an increase of as much as 45% while not notably extending the processing time for each request.
Energy Efficiency Gains
Simultaneously, there is a notable reduction in energy usage. With computing resources being heavily utilized, a decrease of up to 30% is anticipated. Given that a vast majority of servers globally operate on Linux, this could lead to a massive amount of electricity being conserved.
As it stands, servers and data centers are estimated to consume around 500 terawatt-hours at present, and this figure is expected to double in the coming years. A mere 10% reduction in that consumption would be enough to entirely power a smaller industrial nation, such as Denmark.
Optimizing Workflows
Professor Karstens, one of the authors of the study, states that these advancements don’t necessitate any modifications to the Linux kernel. The key lies in optimizing workflows to reduce the number of interrupt requests sent to the processor.
Interrupt requests (IRQs) serve to halt program execution to redirect resources elsewhere. After that shift, the program resumes from where it was interrupted.
However, this method proves to be quite inefficient. By adjusting the kernel, the processor’s cache can be utilized more effectively, and the volume of interrupts can be lowered considerably. Therefore, servers can operate quicker and experience fewer interruptions, especially during peak loads.
Implementation Challenges
That’s just the theory, of course. It’s understood that applying these changes in actual servers and data centers will require some time. With the release of version 6.13 of the Linux kernel, the anticipated modifications have been integrated and are expected to be realized in future Linux updates.
University of Waterloo, Proceedings of the ACM on Measurement and Analysis of Computing Systems, linux.org
Source:
Link
Tags: data centers, Energy Efficiency, Linux
July 31, 2024
Indoor Solar Cells Achieve 37% Efficiency in New Research
Some researchers at the University of Kaunas, Lithuania, have created indoor solar cells with a 37% charging efficiency. Historically, converting artificial light to energy has been more challenging compared to converting solar energy. The Lithuanian research team has now developed a new type of perovskite solar cell that is highly efficient and capable of harnessing power from artificial light.
Efficiency in Low-Light Environments
Current photovoltaic cells struggle to function indoors where artificial light, which has a smaller spectrum and less energy, is present. Many small devices, such as smart sensors and digital clocks, operate at night when solar energy is not available. The new indoor solar cells open up many possibilities by providing power for these devices using minimal artificial light, which is almost always available at night.
Innovative Material and Testing
These innovative solar cells were designed to be efficient and capable of absorbing energy from a limited light spectrum. The material combines an organic semiconductor with perovskite, achieving a decent energy conversion rate. In experiments, the research team used a warm white LED with a temperature of 3,000 Kelvin, which is typical for living room lighting. This spectrum is similar to natural light but lacks infrared radiation. In addition to a special layer of perovskite, the cell uses thiazole molecules to conduct positive charges. Extensive tests showed a 37% efficiency using light from a standard LED, while the efficiency drops to 19% when using solar energy.
Future Prospects
There are no clear timelines yet for transitioning indoor solar cell technology into a commercial product. However, the prospects look promising that this model will eventually become a reality.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Indoor Solar Cells, Perovskite Technology
July 26, 2024
Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Pro: Better Compressor & Condenser
Xiaomi has introduced a new version of its Mijia Air Conditioner Natural Wind Pro, now available in a sleek white color. This model features top-tier energy efficiency, achieved through a next-generation compressor and a double-row condenser.
Intelligent Features and Ecosystem Integration
The air conditioner integrates with Xiaomi’s Pengpai Zhilian ecosystem. It comes equipped with the Lingyun intelligent control engine, offering ultra-fast temperature regulation and vibration reduction. Additionally, it can be controlled via the Mi Home app and the Xiao Ai voice assistant.
Pricing and Availability
The Mijia Air Conditioner Natural Wind Pro Simple White Edition is priced at 2,999 yuan and is currently available for purchase. While it shares the same specifications as the earlier silver-gray model, the new white version provides a fresh look while retaining all the core functionalities.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Mijia Air Conditioner Natural Wind Pro, Xiaomi
May 29, 2024
Qualcomm Unveils High NPU Scores for Snapdragon X Elite
Qualcomm recently revealed remarkable benchmark results on May 28th, highlighting the AI capabilities of their Snapdragon X Elite processor’s Hexagon NPU. The Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100's NPU achieved a score of 1787 in the UL Procyon AI test, far outstripping its competitors: the M3 (898 points) and Ultra 7 155H (480 points).
Significant Efficiency Gains
Qualcomm asserts that the Hexagon NPU operates with much lower power consumption than its rivals. Specifically, it shows a 22% reduction compared to the M3 and a 31% enhancement over the Ultra 7 155H.
Qualcomm has awarded the Snapdragon X Elite the title of “highest NPU performance per watt,” indicating an energy efficiency that is 2.6 times better than the M3 and an astonishing 5.4 times better than the Ultra 7 processor. Although these tests were carried out on Qualcomm reference designs and particular laptops, the results underscore the X Elite’s potential for efficient AI processing.
Real-World Application Potential
Qualcomm also demonstrated the GIMP + Stable Diffusion 1.5 raw image processing capabilities of the Snapdragon X Elite. In this scenario, the NPU provided 3 times the speed compared to the Core Ultra 7 155H, suggesting its promise for practical applications.
Tags: AI Benchmark, Energy Efficiency, Snapdragon X Elite Processor
May 15, 2024
Google Unveils 6th Gen TPU with 4.7x More Computing Power
Google introduced the sixth generation of its Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) for data centers, named Trillium, at the I/O 2024 Developer Conference today. Although a specific release date wasn't mentioned, Google confirmed that Trillium would be available later this year.
Enhanced Memory Bandwidth and Performance Gains
Google CEO Sundar Pichai highlighted the company's continuous commitment to AI advancements, stating, “Google was born for this moment. We have been a pioneer in GPUs for more than a decade.”
Pichai then showcased the remarkable performance enhancements of Trillium. Compared to the fifth generation TPU, Trillium offers an astounding 4.7 times increase in computing power per chip. This leap was made possible by improving the chip’s matrix multiplication unit (MXU) and increasing the overall clock speed. Furthermore, Trillium benefits from doubled memory bandwidth.
Third-Generation SparseCore Technology
Trillium integrates Google’s third-generation SparseCore technology, described as “a purpose-built accelerator for common large-scale tasks in advanced ranking and recommendation workloads.” This advancement enables Trillium TPUs to train models more swiftly and provide lower latency when serving those models.
Focus on Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency was another major focus for Google. Pichai emphasized Trillium as the company’s “most energy-efficient” TPU to date. This is especially important given the increasing demand for AI chips, which can significantly impact the environment. Google claims that Trillium delivers a 67% improvement in energy efficiency compared to the previous generation.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Innovation, Trillium TPU
May 12, 2024
Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Gas Stove S2 Launches in China for 849 yuan
Xiaomi recently introduced the MIJIA Smart Gas Stove S2 in the Chinese market, a cutting-edge appliance boasting high efficiency and safety features such as accidental flameout protection, alongside impressive firepower capabilities.
Innovative Features
The MIJIA Smart Gas Stove S2 showcases a peak firepower of 5,200W in natural gas mode and 4,800W in liquefied gas mode. Constructed with a brass fire cover for enhanced thermal conductivity, the stove’s wrapped firehole design ensures uniform heat distribution, improving cooking performance significantly. With a modern energy-gathering disk utilizing thickened materials and three-dimensional oxygen mixing technology, the stove achieves exceptional thermal efficiency of up to 65%. Moreover, its 230-degree precision valve body knob enables precise fine-tuning of firepower levels to cater to diverse cooking needs.
Enhanced Design and Safety
Designed for both hygiene and aesthetics, the MIJIA Smart Gas Stove S2 features detachable stove head and pot rack components for easy cleaning, while the tempered glass stove panel ensures effortless maintenance. Undergoing six air tightness tests on the gas pipeline and combustion system guarantees maximum safety. The stove also incorporates accidental flameout protection as an added safety measure for users.
Intelligent Functions and Convenience
Equipped with intelligent capabilities, the smart gas stove offers low battery warnings and automatic oil smoke absorption for enhanced comfort during cooking. Continuous usage exceeding an hour triggers reminders through the MIJIA app, serving as a precautionary measure against potential accidents caused by oversight.
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi MIJIA Smart Gas Stove S2 is available in China for 849 yuan ($118) and can be acquired from various retail platforms, including JD.com.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, MIJIA Smart Gas Stove S2, Smart Home Appliances
May 5, 2024
Xiaomi Mijia 3 HP Air Conditioner: Powerful Cooling, Energy Efficiency
Xiaomi has revealed the pre-sale launch of its newest Mijia 3 HP Dual Outlet Vertical Air Conditioner, highlighting its impressive features, energy efficiency, and smart capabilities. While resembling the Fresh Air Pro Dual Outlet model, this unit possesses its unique specifications. Let’s explore its key features.
Xiaomi Mijia Dual Outlet Vertical Air Conditioner 3 HP Specifications:
The air conditioner showcases a visually captivating design with a star-forged silver glass panel, enhancing durability and ease of maintenance. Featuring Kunyi biomimetic dual air outlets, it offers a 160-degree ultra-wide angle for air distribution, catering to spaces of varying sizes effectively.
Performance and Efficiency:
With a significant 1710 m³/h air volume, the unit ensures rapid and efficient temperature control. Operating at 1930W for cooling and 2680W for heating, it provides comfort with two airflow modes: “sky curtain” and “carpet breeze,” adapting to diverse user preferences.
The air conditioner includes high-density antibacterial and antifungal filters, maintaining hygienic air quality by preventing bacterial growth and minimizing the risk of secondary air contamination. With an antibacterial rate of up to 99% and top antifungal grade, it prioritizes user respiratory health.
Eco-Friendly Design and Connectivity:
Boasting a first-level energy efficiency rating, this compact yet powerful indoor unit measures 340mm in width, 1863mm in height, and 408mm in depth, operating quietly at noise levels between 42-46dB (A). Its advanced self-cleaning technology sterilizes components through high-temperature drying, enhancing longevity and performance.
Equipped with Xiaomi HyperOS Connect, the air conditioner supports whole-house smart connectivity, enabling remote control via the Mijia app for temperature adjustments and operation mode changes from anywhere. It also offers voice control through Xiaoai for added convenience.
Pricing and Availability:
The Xiaomi Mijia Dual Outlet Vertical Air Conditioner 3 HP is presently available for pre-sale on JD.com at a price of 5799 yuan ($820) during the initial launch.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Smart Connectivity, Xiaomi Mijia 3 HP Dual Outlet Vertical Air Conditioner